The Imaginary

Amanda Blackwood has an imaginary friend named Rudger who is as real to her as any other companion. Their ordinary days of play and adventure take a dark turn when a mysterious man appears, claiming to study imaginary friends. The story moves between the real world and the hidden realm of imaginary friends, where Rudger discovers a secret society of forgotten imaginaries. Emily Gravett's black-and-white and full-color illustrations bring both worlds to life through detailed drawings that capture the story's mix of everyday life and fantasy. A tale of friendship, loyalty, and the power of imagination, The Imaginary explores what it means to be real and the connections that exist beyond what we can see. The novel raises questions about memory, belief, and the role imagination plays in shaping our lives.

Readers describe The Imaginary as a dark, bittersweet story that handles complex themes of friendship, loss, and growing up. Parents note it may be too intense for sensitive children under 8-10 years old. Readers highlighted: - Emily Gravett's illustrations that enhance the emotional impact - The blend of whimsy and darker elements - Strong character development between Amanda and Rudger - Unique take on imaginary friends Common criticisms: - Pacing issues in the middle section - Some found the villain too frightening for younger readers - A few felt the ending was unsatisfying Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (180+ ratings) "The perfect balance of wonder and creepiness" - Goodreads reviewer "My 9-year-old couldn't sleep after reading certain chapters" - Amazon parent review "Beautiful but haunting - definitely for older middle grade readers" - School Library Journal reader review

The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman A man returns to his childhood home and uncovers memories of otherworldly beings who protected him from dark forces that threatened his family.

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson Two children create an imaginary kingdom in the woods where they rule as king and queen until tragedy forces one to face reality alone.

The House of Lost Dreams by Sophie Anderson A girl discovers a mysterious house where dreams manifest into reality and must navigate between real and imagined worlds to save her sister.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman An orphaned boy grows up in a graveyard, raised by ghosts and supernatural beings who protect him from the man who murdered his family.

A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness A boy coping with his mother's illness receives visits from a monster who tells him stories that help him face difficult truths.

🌟 Emily Gravett won both the Kate Greenaway Medal and the Nestlé Children's Book Prize for her distinctive illustration style before illustrating The Imaginary. 🌟 A.F. Harrold performs as a poet at festivals and schools across the UK, bringing the same whimsical storytelling style he uses in his books to live audiences. 🌟 The concept of imaginary friends has been studied by psychologists who estimate that up to 65% of children have them, viewing them as a healthy part of social development. 🌟 The book was shortlisted for the UKLA Book Award in 2016, celebrating its unique approach to exploring the boundary between reality and imagination. 🌟 The hardcover edition features special printing techniques where some illustrations appear to fade into the page, mimicking the way imaginary friends might fade from view.